Shah promises industrial revival, Rs 250-cr piped drinking water plan at Purulia
The Statesman | 13 April 2026
Union home minister Amit Shah on Saturday promised to revive industry in West Bengal if the BJP comes to power, while launching a sharp attack on the ruling Trinamul Congress (TMC) over issues ranging from infiltration and law and order to women’s safety.
Addressing a public meeting at Baghmundi in Purulia, Shah asserted that a BJP government would work to restore the state’s industrial base and create employment opportunities for the youth. “West Bengal once led the country in industry, but thousands of factories have shut down. Our tribal and Kurmi brothers are forced to migrate to cities like Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Delhi and Mumbai in search of work. We will make Bengal an industrial hub again,” he said. He added that until employment generation improves, unemployed youth would be provided a monthly allowance of Rs 3,000. Stepping up his attack on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Shah alleged that her government had failed to ensure development and was focused on promoting dynastic politics.
On infiltration, Shah reiterated the BJP’s “detect, delete and deport” policy, claiming that illegal infiltrators would be identified and removed. He also promised implementation of a Uniform Civil Code in the state and said government employees would receive Seventh Pay Commission benefits within 45 days of the BJP assuming office.
Highlighting welfare measures, Shah promised Rs 3,000 per month for women, Rs 2,000 each for senior citizens, widows and specially-abled persons, and Rs 9,000 annually for farmers. He further assured that corruption in the form of “cut money” and syndicate raj would be eliminated. Addressing concerns of water scarcity in tribal areas despite rivers like Kansabati and Subarnarekha, Shah announced a Rs 250-crore plan to provide piped drinking water to households in Purulia and adjoining regions.